This week’s top stories: A14X chip and iPad Pro rumors, Apple Watch ‘Explorer Edition,’ more

In this week’s top stories: New iPad Pro details, Apple Silicon iMacs coming soon, iOS 14.5 beta 5, and more. Read on for all of this week’s top Apple stories.

A14X Procesor

Apple this week released iOS 14.5 and iPadOS 14.5 beta 5 to developers, and there are new references to an unannounced A14X processor included in these betas This comes as rumors suggest Apple could release new iPad Pros as soon as next month.

9to5Mac was able to discover that the A14X is likely to be based on the M1 processor currently used in the Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air. Check out our full report right here for more details.

Apple Watch Explorer Edition

A new report from Bloomberg this week indicated that Apple is developing a more rugged variant of the Apple Watch. This model could be released as soon as this year, and it would be positioned as being more durable than other Apple Watch models.

Internally, Apple is reportedly referring to this device as the “Explorer Edition” Apple Watch. While it could be coming this year, the report also noted that the project could be canceled altogether.

Apple Silicon iMacs

In the latest macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta, 9to5Mac discovered references to new unreleased iMac models. This comes as rumors indicate new Apple Silicon iMacs could be coming soon.

The new iMacs are identified within macOS as “iMac21,1” and “iMac21,2.” Unfortunately, we can’t discover much else about what to expect, but this is yet more evidence that new models are looming.

HomePod

A new teardown this week revealed that the HomePod mini has a hidden and unused humidity and temperature sensor. As reported by Bloomberg, this sensor could be activated through a software update to provide new functionality to HomePod mini users.

The same Bloomberg report also mentioned in passing that Apple is developing new HomePod models with a screen, but details here remain unclear.

These and the rest of this week’s top stories below.

iOS |

• Apple claims iOS developers can bypass the App Store by creating web apps
• iOS 14.5 beta 5 now available to developers as public release nears
• Apple releases iOS 14.4.2 and iOS 12.5.2 to fix critical security vulnerability

iPhone |

• Brazil’s consumer protection regulator fines Apple $2M for not including charger in iPhone 12 box
• Rumor: New matte black color option for iPhone 13 Pro, LiDAR-enhanced Portrait mode
• Leaked image claims to show iPhone 13 front glass panels with smaller notch
• Apple once again highlights Ceramic Shield benefits in new iPhone 12 ‘Fumble’ ad
• iPhone 13 rumored to use LPTO displays from Samsung with 120Hz support

Apple Watch |

• OnePlus debuts its first Apple Watch competitor touting 2-week battery life and $159 price
• watchOS 7.4 beta 5 brings iPhone mask unlock feature for Apple Watch closer to launch
• Apple Watch reviewed in 2015, revisited in 2021

Mac and iPad |

• iOS code reveals ‘A14X’ processor ahead of rumored iPad Pro upgrades
• Poll: Which rumored Apple Silicon iMac are you most excited about?
• Intel shows exactly what we expect from the next-generation MacBook Pro
• New Apple Silicon iMacs referenced in latest macOS Big Sur 11.3 beta
• MacBook university fraud sees sister and brother pocket $4M
• On 20th anniversary of Mac OS X, ‘an act of desperation’ at the time
• Judge certifies class action lawsuit against Apple over infamous MacBook butterfly keyboard
• Everything we know about Apple’s rumored 2021 iPad Pro update
• Former Apple VP Scott Forstall celebrates the 20th anniversary of Mac OS X on Twitter

Top Apple stories, retail |

• All 270 US Apple Stores are open for the first time since March 2020
• COVID-19: Which Apple Stores have reopened?

AirPods and HomePod |

• Apple discontinues original HomePod
• Comment: Farewell HomePod, Apple’s most misunderstood product
• Comment: The state of Apple TV and end of HomePod warrants a Home strategy roundtable
• Apple promotes AirPods Pro in new ‘Jump’ ad ahead of rumored AirPods 3
• Poll: Do you think Apple will release a replacement for the discontinued HomePod?
• Concept: How Apple could combine the best of HomePod, Apple TV, and iPad to create the perfect smart display
• Apple AirPods 3 not launching until Q3, says Ming-Chi Kuo
• Leaker indicates AirPods 3 not launching in March, AirPods 2 to continue being sold
• Here are 5 smart speaker alternatives to fill the void left by Apple’s HomePod
• Apple turns AirPods Pro ‘Jump’ campaign into viral trend with new TikTok challenge

Tech Industry |

• The FCC no longer trusts ISPs: It wants you to describe your broadband service
• Experts say the giant ship stuck in the Suez Canal could affect supply of ‘anything you see in stores’

Apps |

• PSA: Disney+ is getting more expensive; here’s how to lock in the original rate
• Apple releases Pages, Numbers, and Keynote updates with precise editing controls, updated media browser, more
• WhatsApp for iOS testing different playback speeds on voice messages
• ‘Reflector’ AirPlay mirroring app updated with M1 Mac and Big Sur support, new device frames, more
• Spotify updating iOS/Android app home screens with recently played, discover, and podcasts
• ‘Hue Sentiment’ is a new iOS app for adjusting Philips Hue smart lights based on your mood
• Magic the Gathering Arena now available for iPhone and iPad

AR/VR Headset |

• Kuo: Apple headset to have ultra-short focal length lenses and weigh less than 150 grams
• Kuo: 2022 Apple headset will track eye movement, blinking, and possibly authenticate users with iris recognition

AAPL Company |

• What to expect from Apple in Spring 2021: New iPad Pro, AirTags, and more
• HomePod mini reportedly includes room temperature and humidity sensor, could be enabled through software update
• Apple to pay more than $300 million after infringing DRM patent
• Opinion: Now is the time for Apple to release a new Apple TV
• Apple doubling down on supply chain security to prevent leaks, including biometric data collection

Subscribe to 9to5Mac’s YouTube channel for more videos.

This week’s top videos |

• Review: Satechi Slim X1 – better than the Magic Keyboard in several ways [Video]
• Hands-on: Moment’s upcoming MagSafe accessories for iPhone 12 [Video]

9to5Mac Daily |

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players.

Sponsored by Ulysses: A powerful and beautiful writing app for Mac, iPad, and iPhone. 9to5Mac Daily listeners can exclusively get three for free months with this link.

‘LLM Siri’ rumors and more – 9to5Mac Daily

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Sponsored by CardPointers: The best way to maximize your credit card rewards. 9to5Mac Daily listeners can exclusively save 50%. New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they’re available. Stories discussed in this episode: OpenAI accidentally erased ChatGPT training findings as lawyers seek copyright violations Bloomberg: Apple developing new ‘LLM Siri’ for iOS 19 and macOS 16 M4 Mac release schedule: Here’s when to expect the next Macs Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Overcast RSS Spotify TuneIn Google Podcasts Subscribe to support Chance directly with 9to5Mac Daily Plus and unlock: Ad-free versions of every episode Bonus content Catch up on 9to5Mac Daily episodes! Don’t miss out on our other daily podcasts: Quick Charge 9to5Toys Daily Share your thoughts! Drop us a line at happyhour@9to5mac.com. You can also rate us in Apple Podcasts or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show.

1. ‘LLM Siri’ rumors and more 06:31
2. Apple Black Friday event, iOS 18.2 tidbits 05:55
3. iOS 18.1.1 update, next-gen Pro Display XDR rumors 06:20
4. Apple TV+ strategy, MacBook Pro display upgrade 06:28
5. Next-gen AirTag, ChatGPT upgrades 05:40

9to5Mac Watch Time |

Jeff Benjamin joins Zac Hall to give Apple Watch Series 3 and Series 5 an exit interview before new models are announced. 9to5Mac Watch Time is a podcast series hosted by Zac Hall. In this series, we talk to real people about how Apple Watch is affecting their lives.

Sponsored by Pillow: Pillow is an all-in-one sleep tracking solution to help you get a better night’s sleep. Download it from the App Store today.

Week 6 – 9to5Mac Watch Time

This week on Watch Time join 9to5Mac's Zac Hall and Tempo developer Rahul Matta in the final episode of this podcast "season". 9to5Mac Watch Time is a podcast series hosted by Zac Hall. In this series, we talk to real people about how Apple Watch is affecting their lives. Subscribe now to catch up with each episode and automatically hear new episodes as soon as they’re released every two weeks: 🟣 Apple Podcasts | 🟠 Overcast | 🟢 Spotify Follow Zac Instagram @apollozac Twitter @apollozac SpaceExplored.com Follow Rahul Matta Twitter @rmatta Twitter @TempoLog Blog indie.sh Follow 9to5Mac Instagram @9to5mac Twitter @9to5mac Facebook YouTube.com/9to5Mac Listen & Subscribe Apple Podcasts Spotify Overcast RSS Read More Toning down the Apple Watch: Tips and feature requests to avoid being overwhelmed Apple releases watchOS 7.4.1 with security improvements Apple Watch blood sugar and blood pressure measurement could be a step closer watchOS 7.4 brings iPhone mask unlock feature for Apple Watch Enjoy the podcast? Shop Apple at Amazon to support 9to5Mac Watch Time!

1. Week 6 46:48
2. With guest Sigmund Judge 42:59
3. Week 5 52:45
4. Week 4 57:20
5. Week 3 56:40

9to5Mac Happy Hour Podcast |

9to5Mac Happy Hour is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play Music, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players.

Sponsored by WMware Workspace ONE: To learn more about Workspace ONE for macOS visit vmware.com/go/macos.

Sponsored by Ladder: Check out ladderlife.com/happyhour to see if you’re instantly approved.

Sponsored by Audible: Visit audible.com/9to5mac or text 9to5mac to 500-500 to start your 30 day trial.

Sponsored by TextExpander: Visit textexpander.com/podcast and select 9to5Mac Happy Hour to save 20% off your first year!

Apple TV set rumors resurface, AirTag 2, TV+ original movies strategy – 9to5Mac Happy Hour

Benjamin and Chance discuss the merits of Apple returning to the long-gestating idea of an Apple television set, in the context of its refocusing on smart home devices. Also, the second-generation AirTag is rumored to arrive in 2025 with some nice enhancements, and Apple’s original film division continues to waver on strategy.  And in Happy Hour Plus, Chance bemoans Apple’s abandonment of accessories like the MagSafe Battery Pack, and gives his thoughts on the new Belkin strap for Vision Pro. Subscribe at 9to5mac.com/join. Sponsored by SelectQuote: Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at SelectQuote.com/HAPPYHOUR. Sponsored by Dreame Technologies: This Black Friday, discover Dreame Technologies' innovative family of smart home cleaning solutions—designed to revolutionize your cleaning routine! Don’t miss out on groundbreaking deals, plus enjoy an extra 5% off with code DM9to55off at checkout. Experience the future of cleaning today! Sponsored by Shopify: Grow your business no matter what stage you’re in. Sign up for a $1 per month trial at shopify.com/happyhour. Hosts Chance Miller @ChanceHMiller on Twitter @chancehmiller@mastodon.social @ChanceHMiller on Instagram @ChanceHMiller on Threads Benjamin Mayo @bzamayo on Twitter @bzamayo@mastodon.social @bzamayo on Threads Subscribe, Rate, and Review Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus Subscribe to 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus! Support Benjamin and Chance directly with Happy Hour Plus! 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus includes:  Ad-free versions of every episode  Pre- and post-show content Bonus episodes Join for $5 per month or $50 a year at 9to5mac.com/join.  Feedback Submit #Ask9to5Mac questions on Twitter, Mastodon, or Threads Email us feedback and questions to happyhour@9to5mac.com Links Apple reportedly releasing AirTag 2 next year with these 3 improvements The SwitchBot Wallet Finder Card with Find My support tvOS 18.2 beta 3 adds new Snoopy screensaver to Apple TV iOS 18.2 beta 4: Here's what's new Gurman: Apple 'evaluating' idea of releasing a TV set again Apple TV+ will license its movies to other services to reduce losses, per report Apple's MagSafe Battery Pack for iPhone shouldn’t have been a one-and-done experiment

1. Apple TV set rumors resurface, AirTag 2, TV+ original movies strategy 01:02:05
2. Apple smart display details, iPhone 17 Slim, iOS 18.2 beta 3 51:52
3. Apple acquires Pixelmator, iOS 18.2 beta 2, Apple movie glasses 01:00:17
4. New M4 Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and iMac reactions 56:58
5. New Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.2, iPad mini reviews, Apple gaming app 01:05:34

Stacktrace Podcast |

Stacktrace by 9to5Mac is available on iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players.

Sponsored by Linode: Get $100 in free credit to Develop, deploy, and scale your modern applications faster and easier.

Sponsored by Pillow: Pillow is an all-in-one sleep tracking solution to help you get a better night’s sleep. Download it from the App Store today.

Stacktrace has moved! – Stacktrace

As we've mentioned in the last episode, the Stacktrace podcast is no longer a part of the 9to5Mac network. If you're seeing this entry in your podcast player, then you probably need to unfollow Stacktrace and follow the podcast again. Start by unfollowing the show in your podcast player, then just search for "Stacktrace" and follow the show again. You'll notice that the updated show has a new artwork and that episode 179 has already been released there. To learn more about how to listen to Stacktrace, check out our new website. Thanks for listening!

1. Stacktrace has moved! 01:00
2. 178: “Let’s try something new” 01:03:25
3. 177: “The stand is included!” 01:09:24
4. 176: “Extra Keynote Poker” 01:19:00
5. 175: “A Bluetooth fanboy” 54:35

Apple @ Work Podcast |

Apple @ Work by 9to5Mac is available on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and via RSS for other podcast players.

FIDO Alliance's plan for Passkey migration – Apple @ Work

Apple @ Work is exclusively brought to you by Mosyle, the only Apple Unified Platform. Mosyle is the only solution that integrates in a single professional-grade platform all the solutions necessary to seamlessly and automatically deploy, manage & protect Apple devices at work. Over 45,000 organizations trust Mosyle to make millions of Apple devices work-ready with no effort and at an affordable cost. Request your EXTENDED TRIAL today and understand why Mosyle is everything you need to work with Apple. In this episode of Apple @ Work, I talk with Rew Islam from Dashlane about the plans from the FIDO Alliance to allow for Passkey migration between various password managers. Links FIDO Alliance Publishes New Specifications to Promote User Choice and Enhanced UX for Passkeys Synced Passkeys Will Be Portable Connect with Bradley Twitter LinkedIn Listen and subscribe Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Pocket Casts Castro RSS Listen to Past Episodes

1. FIDO Alliance's plan for Passkey migration 15:26
2. Apple's role in telemedicine 24:52
3. AirPods Pro 2 and hearing aid technology 15:08
4. MacStadium delivers Citrix enhancements 17:26
5. Hacker Rangers 14:20

Subscribe to get all 9to5Mac’s stories delivered to your inbox daily. And to 9to5Toys for the best deals from around the web.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.